Technology and customisation improve the guest journey

Smart, safe and stylish

The demand for smart technology and customised solutions is growing fast in the hotel industry. Michel Anusic sees this need on a daily basis. As founder of HotelPro Group, he responds to these developments with a total solution for every hotelier. This ranges from access control and hotel accessories to integration with software partners.

At HotelPro Group, part of Koole Controls, improving the guest journey is key. “What really sets us apart as a proven access control specialist within the leisure market is the feedback from our cloud-based locks to the reservation system as soon as a guest opens the room for the first time using their mobile or PIN or keycard,” explains Anusic. “With that, the hotelier knows that the guest has actually arrived. This is essential, especially considering that in countries like the Netherlands and Belgium, legislation requires hoteliers to always know who is in their hotel. This technology also allows for economical operation of the HVAC system. With this technology, which has been used in the leisure industry for years, we are at the forefront of the hotel industry.”

Cost savings

Besides security, cost saving is a key driver for hoteliers. “We understand this like no other,” says Anusic. “That is why we are constantly looking at how we can make processes smarter and with which partners we can do this. Our collaboration with OpenGDS Booking Engine is a good example. This engine lets hotel guests book a room or package in three clear steps; fully integrated into the website and in the hotel's house style.”

Upgrade bathroom mirrors

HotelPro Group also specialises in the supply and installation of hotel furnishings and accessories. “We supply everything from lockers to minibars, LED bathroom mirrors to ironing stations, but with the possibility of customisation and including installation if required by our customer,” Anusic stresses.

A recent example is the collaboration with Event Hotels, where old fluorescent mirrors were replaced with modern LED bathroom mirrors at several locations. “Because we did the complete job - from delivery to installation and disposal - on us, this customer was able to save over 30 per cent. And everything is fully customised.”

Hair dryer in pouch

At first glance, a hairdryer may seem like a minor detail, but it is precisely in this that a clear trend is currently emerging in the luxury hotel category, Anusic knows. “Whereas you used to see those fixed wall hair dryers hanging in the bathroom, more and more top hotels are now opting for a loose model in a luxury pouch with a logo made of eco-friendly material. The guest can use these wherever he or she wants; for example, by the big mirror in the room instead of in the bathroom. It offers freedom and feels just that little bit more luxurious.”

‘Do not Disturb’ system

Also in the brand new five-star Hotel Maison Maastricht, under the Accor label Handwritten, HotelPro Group supplies a total package of room accessories and access control, including a fully customised ‘Do Not Disturb’ system. “Instead of a do not disturb pendant on the door handle, the guest now has a luxury control panel with illuminated bell, ‘do not disturb’ indicator as well as a ‘clean my room’ function. All designed in consultation with the customer and fitting exactly into the design of the hotel.”

Digital guest journey

In addition, integration with software partners plays a major role in the strategy. “We work closely with parties offering digital guest journey and PMS solutions. We ensure that our systems with the online check-in seamlessly connect to them. Think of a guest receiving a link before arrival that allows him to explore the hotel digitally and check in online in advance. And can open the door upon arrival.” 

Fresh approach

Although HotelPro Group is relatively new as a company within the hotel industry, it has already built up an impressive client list in a short period of time. Chains such as Hampshire, Charme, Excite Hotels and Accor are now working with their systems on both existing and new projects. “We prove that, as a relatively new player with the right knowledge in-house, you can offer a fresh, efficient approach,” Anusic concludes. Our customers want one party to take care of everything: from software to mirror. With that, we really connect the dots.”